Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing is the use of two panes inside a frame or opening in a wall. Sometimes, this window glass gets damaged and may require repairs.
If you have noticed condensation between your windows, or a noticeable draft, or if hinges or handles become difficult to open, this is a sign that your double glazing needs repair. This repair typically requires a reseal of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double-glazed windows comprise of two glass panes that have an air gap in between which is filled with inert gases, such as Krypton or argon. This keeps the heat in your home and prevent cold drafts and moisture from escaping. Sometimes, windows can be damaged and the entire window will need to be replaced. If you notice a crack or chip in the window, it is crucial to contact the company that supplied you with the double glazing immediately to report the problem and ask about a repair.
It is possible to repair a broken pane of glass with just a few steps, however it is not recommended unless you are experienced in DIY. First of all, you will have to put on gloves and carefully remove the broken pane. If it's cracked press strips of masking tape across the cracked areas in a crisscrossing pattern. This will prevent the cracks from getting more severe as time passes, especially in the winter. It is also recommended to protect your work area with newspapers to prevent any broken pieces from falling. Once the broken pane has been removed scrape away any existing glazing putty or glazed window seal with the help of a putty knife. Then, remove the glazing points using pliers. Finally, paint the bare wood with a fast-drying primer.
If you're able to purchase a replacement pane you can measure the length and width of the grooved channel using a tape measure. Subtract 1/8'' from both measurements to allow for some movement of the new pane. Then, you can roll a thin rope of glazing compound into the grooved channels and slide the replacement glass into place. Tap gently with the drum at 6'' or intervals of 8'' to help set the glass in its place, but be careful not to break the glass.
It is worth using your double glazing warranty to avoid the expense of a full replacement window. In general the warranty will cover both the cost of the parts and labor. It is crucial to review the terms of your guarantee as they will differ from one company to the next, so make sure you understand what is covered and when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation in the panes of your double glazing could cause foggy glass. It could be due to many things like temperature fluctuations, incorrectly installed frames, or the deteriorating seals.
The good news is that, in the majority of cases it can be fixed easily by a professional double glazing installer. It is recommended to contact the company that installed your windows right away if you find any issues. Follow up with a written response. It is easier to reach out to the company if you have to do so later. This is also helpful in the event that your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.
It is possible to solve the problem by replacing the seals on the gaskets. This will not need replacing your entire window unit. It will help keep your home more energy efficient. The window glazier will first remove the clips or retaining strips that are holding the IGU and then make use of the saw to cut through the sealant that was previously used.
They'll then design or order an IGU that is designed to fit inside the frame, and they'll use special sealants to ensure that it's air and watertight. When they're done, they'll reinstall retaining clips or strip and apply more sealant.
If you are lucky, the misting will stop. It's essential that your frames are properly ventilated to stop moisture from building up within your ceilings or walls.
Double glazing owners may also notice that their doors and windows are difficult to open or close. This may be due to extreme weather conditions or simply because the frame has sagged over time and isn't aligned with the rest of your home. If this is the problem you can try wiping down the frames with cold water to shrink them a bit. However, this won't solve the issue completely. If you aren't able to solve the issue away, you may require replacement by a professional.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulating gasses in double glazing windows fail to hold their position leaving air and moisture between the panes. This is more common in winter, when humidity levels are higher. However it can also occur at other times. Moisture can cause mould and mildew to grow around window frames, sealants and sills. This isn't just unsightly, but it's also dangerous for your health. The good thing is that condensation can usually be sealed by a window expert to reduce the moisture level in your home and prevent moisture from accumulating.
Window gaskets are a crucial part of any double-glazed window or door. Gaskets are used to seal the insulated space between your window glass to stop drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. Gaskets can degrade or shrink over time due to fluctuations in temperature, weather conditions and ageing, meaning that condensation could be appearing on your double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to repair this, but it will likely involve replacing the'sandwich' (thermo-pane and glass) of your double glazing window with a replacement that is exactly. It is recommended that, unless you have the proper tools, you get a professional to re-seal double-glazed windows.
Mist in your double-glazed windows is another issue that is difficult to fix. This is an indication that the vacuum seal in the factory has failed, and there is no way to get air into or out of the sandwich.
A professional will reseal your window with the same method as they would with the fog or condensation issue. This typically involves removing the sandwich and then spraying the cleaning solution on it, followed by sucking out the old sealing agent. It is essential to precisely measure the sandwich's length width, thickness and length to ensure that the replacement is a perfect fit, and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.
This can be a challenging job and requires specialised tools that aren't commonly available in DIY stores. It is best to leave this job to professionals as incorrect seals could result in damp and mold in your home. This can be costly and harmful to your health.
Water Leaks
If you notice water leaks around your double-glazed windows, you must take action quickly. A small leak can quickly become a major issue when not dealt with quickly.
The window frame could be the cause. Verify that the sill, the flat bottom of the window frame, is pitched so that water drains away from your house and not into the frame. If the sill pan isn't pitched correctly or you notice moisture in the wood, you will need to contact a double glazing repair company for professional help.
Another common cause of water leaks is the window seal being damaged. This could be due to weather, age, or damage. This isn't an easy fix and should be left to professionals.
This could lead to lower energy efficiency. This allows cold air to enter your home during winter and hot gas to escape in the summer. This could result in higher cost of cooling and heating.
It is easy to fix it by applying a new layer of caulking. While it is possible for people with some DIY skills to complete this themselves, it is normally much easier to let a double-glazing specialist take care of it for you. This way you will get assurance and peace of mind knowing that the job is done properly.
East Grinstead double glazing repairs -glazing windows are available with warranties of up to 20 years. You should check with the company who sold you your windows to find out what warranty they offer and how long they last. This will help you avoid the cost of having to replace your double-glazed windows at a later time. If your double-glazed windows are covered under a warranty, it is crucial to report the problem with them immediately you spot any problems. This can be done online or by calling the company directly. All of this information in writing will be helpful if you ever require your warranty.